Supply Concentration

Definition ∞ ‘Supply Concentration’ describes the extent to which the total supply of a digital asset is held by a small number of entities or addresses. High supply concentration indicates that a significant portion of the asset’s supply is controlled by a few large holders, often referred to as ‘whales’. This situation can raise concerns about market manipulation, price volatility, and the decentralization of the asset. Conversely, a more dispersed supply suggests greater decentralization and potentially more stable market dynamics.
Context ∞ The current discussion around ‘Supply Concentration’ in cryptocurrencies often highlights the growing holdings of major entities in Bitcoin and Ethereum. A key debate involves whether this concentration poses systemic risks or reflects the natural maturation of markets with institutional participation. Critical future developments to watch for include tracking the accumulation or divestment patterns of these large holders, assessing the potential impact of their actions on market liquidity, and observing any regulatory efforts aimed at mitigating risks associated with concentrated ownership.